Finding new interior design clients can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re feeling stuck in your business, it’s essential to explore new strategies that can help you connect with potential clients. Here are seven unexpected ways to amplify your client base. These will get your business back on track, especially if you’re focused on starting out in design.
1. Design Your Own Place—Be Your Own Client
One of the most effective ways to showcase your design skills is by turning your own space into a portfolio piece. Whether it’s an apartment, condo, or home, designing your own space gives you the freedom to express your creativity without the limitations that client projects can sometimes impose.
Leverage Your Home: Use your own residence as a lead generator for potential clients. You can create different looks by changing furniture arrangements, swapping out accessories, and even altering color schemes seasonally. This approach provides you with a versatile portfolio. It also allows you to experiment with different styles and concepts.
Press and Social Media: Don’t hesitate to share your work on social media or even issue a press release. You might be surprised by the interest your home generates from local media or potential clients.
2. Utilize Online Platforms Like Thumbtack, Bark, and Home Advisor
While these platforms might not be the first place you think of for finding high-end clients, they can be surprisingly effective for certain markets, especially when you’re focused on getting clients when you’re starting out in design.
Targeted Opportunities: These platforms allow you to choose the projects you want to bid on, giving you control over the type of work you take on. In some cases, designers have even landed celebrity clients through these channels.
Understand the Audience: Platforms like Thumbtack and Home Advisor can attract male clients who may not rely on referrals from friends, as women often do. If you enjoy working with male clients, these platforms could be a valuable resource.
3. Participate in a Showhouse
Showhouses offer a unique opportunity to showcase your design skills to a broader audience, including potential clients, media, and industry peers.
Select Your Project: You don’t have to be an established designer to participate in a showhouse. Look for opportunities that align with your current stage in your career, whether it’s a smaller room or a less competitive showhouse.
Maximize Exposure: Showhouses are often covered by the media and attract a wide range of visitors. Participating can lead to significant exposure and new client inquiries.
4. Leverage Speaking Engagements
Public speaking is a powerful way to establish yourself as an expert in your field and connect with potential clients.
Teach at Local Universities: Offering courses or workshops at local universities can position you as an authority while providing a direct connection to busy professionals who may become your clients.
Speak at Community Events: Engage with local organizations, such as women’s clubs, gated communities, or religious institutions. These venues often have a ready-made audience of potential clients who are eager to learn from experts.
5. Embrace Social Media
Despite its challenges, social media remains a critical tool for growing your client base.
Be Authentic: Sharing behind-the-scenes content, personal stories, and day-to-day activities can help potential clients feel like they know you. Authenticity is key—clients are more likely to hire someone they feel a personal connection with.
Consistency is Key: Regularly posting and engaging on social media platforms like Instagram can lead to a steady stream of client inquiries. It’s about showing up consistently and being real, not just showcasing perfect images.
6. Use Dating Apps to Network
This may sound unconventional, but dating apps can be a surprisingly effective way to connect with potential clients—especially if you’re single and looking to work with other singles who need help with their homes.
Target Single Professionals: Create a profile that highlights your design skills and mention that you’re open to working with single professionals who want a well-appointed home. It’s a unique niche, but one that can pay off when getting clients when you’re starting out in design.
7. Turn Your Side Hustle Into a Full-Fledged Service
If you have a specialty or side hustle, such as decorative painting or soft furnishings, consider leveraging it to attract clients who might then hire you for larger projects.
Specialize to Stand Out: Focusing on a specific niche can help you get your foot in the door. Once inside, you can expand your services to include full-room or full-home designs.
Expand From a Niche: Starting with a specialized service makes it easier for clients to hire you for additional work as they get to know and trust your capabilities.
Keyword Takeaways
When it comes to getting clients when you’re starting out in design, thinking outside the box can yield surprising results. Whether you’re starting out or feeling stuck, these seven unexpected strategies can help you attract new clients and grow your business.Remember, the key to success is persistence, creativity, and a willingness to explore new avenues.
When you’re ready to increase your interior design business profits, work exclusively with ideal clients, and enjoy the time and resources for your extraordinary life, explore your coaching options. We’ve got your back in the business of design and the business of home.
